Universal exercise band retaining device

ABSTRACT

A universal exercise band retaining device includes a body formed of a continuous section of material. The material is selectively bent to form an attachment eyelet from which a retaining hook section extends. In use, two retaining devices are utilized, such that the ends of an exercise bar extend through the eyelets. The attachment of the retaining devices to an exercise bar allows an exercise band to be attached to the hook sections of the retaining device. Curved stops terminate the ends of a capture section that retains the exercise band to the retaining device. This prevents the exercise band from slipping off the retaining device during use, without imparting any chaffing to the material of the exercise band, thereby extending the operating life and reducing the potential for failure of the exercise band.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to devices for attaching one or more exercise bands to a bar. In particular, the various embodiments disclosed herein relate to exercise band retaining devices configured to be removably attached to any suitable exercise bar. More particularly, the various embodiments disclosed herein relate to an exercise band retaining device having an attachment mechanism for selectively attaching the device to an exercise bar.

BACKGROUND

Exercise bands have become a popular fitness tool due to their inexpensive nature and the numerous manners in which they can be used in one's training regimen to attain desired fitness results. Furthermore, exercise bands are offered in a variety of resilience strengths, with the ability to impart various levels of training resistance to a user. In addition, because these bands are flexible, they can be adapted to be used in a multitude of different manners to target a particular group.

In addition, given the low cost of the exercise bands, many individuals have attempted to substitute them for plate weights, which are expensive, as well as heavy, bulky and cumbersome to use. For example, individuals have used exercise bands with an elongated exercise bar, such as a straight bar, to perform bicep curls for example. This is often done by placing each end of the bar through the loop ends of the exercise band. Then, while anchoring the band, such as through standing on the band for example, resistance is applied to the bar as the user contracts their biceps during a curl movement while holding the bar.

Unfortunately, it is exceedingly difficult for a user to attach the ends of the exercise band to the exercise bar ends by themselves. Often times, if a user attempts to pre-thread the exercise bar through the ends of the exercise band prior to engaging in an exercise movement, the exercise band ends up falling off of the exercise bar as the user positions the exercise bar and band in the position needed to complete an exercise. Alternatively, attempting to attach the ends of the exercise band to the exercise bar as the user holds the exercise bar in position presents the user with the nearly impossible task of stretching the exercise band to attach it to the exercise bar while simultaneously holding the exercise bar in position. In either case, the user is plagued with this tedious process each time he or she desires to use exercise bands, which is not only tremendously frustrating, but is a wasteful expenditure of a substantial amount of their time. Not only is this undesirable, but it overwhelmingly contributes to a user's dissatisfaction with the exercise band/exercise bar, which eventually leads to a great many users discontinuing use of the exercise band/exercise bar. Furthermore, simply having the ends of an exercise bar extend through the loop end of an exercise band increases the potential for the exercise band to slip off the end of the bar. In addition, due to the substantial amount of tension developed by the exercise band, the band can snap off the bar with tremendous force, which can result in sever bodily injury. In addition, the exercise band may tear or shred apart as it passes over the end of the bar being used, rendering the exercise band useless.

Therefore, there is a need for an exercise band retaining device configured to prevent an exercise band from sliding off, or otherwise becoming inadvertently detached from, an exercise bar. In addition, there is a need for an exercise band retaining device that is capable of being selectively attached to a variety of exercise bars. Furthermore, there is a need for an exercise band retaining device that includes a hook portion that is configured with radiused or curved transitions to prevent the chaffing or shredding of the exercise band during use of the exercise bar. There is also a need for an exercise band retaining device that utilizes a release mechanism to selectively and conveniently retain the retaining device to an exercise bar.

SUMMARY

In light of the foregoing, it is a first aspect of the various embodiments disclosed herein to provide a device for retaining an exercise band to an exercise bar comprising an attachment section adapted to be attached to the exercise bar; a capture section attached extending from the attachment section by a first curved stop section; and a second curved stop section attached to an end of the capture section, whereby the exercise band is retained between the first and second curved stop sections.

Another aspect of the various embodiments disclosed herein is to provide a kit comprising an exercise bar having a bore disposed therethrough; and a retention device comprising an attachment section adapted to be received in the bore; a capture section attached extending from the attachment section by a first curved stop section; and a second curved stop section attached to an end of the capture section, whereby the exercise band is retained between the first and second curved stop sections.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the various embodiments disclosed herein will become better understood with regard to the following description, accompanying drawings, and appended claims, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a universal exercise band retaining device in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 2 is an elevational view of the universal exercise band retaining device in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the universal exercise band retaining device attached to an exercise bar in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the universal exercise band retaining device in use and attached to an exercise bar that is connected to an exercise band in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 5 is an elevational view of an alternative embodiment of the universal exercise band retaining device in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 6 is an elevational view of yet another alternative embodiment of the universal exercise band retaining device having a threaded end in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 7 is still another alternative embodiment of the universal exercise band retaining device utilizing a set collar in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 8 is yet another alternative embodiment of the universal exercise band retaining device utilizing a retaining device, such as a pin, in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 9 is still another embodiment of the universal exercise band retaining device utilizing a bearing in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the bearing, and set collars attached to the exercise bar in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein; and

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a bearing utilized by the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 in accordance with the concepts of the various embodiments disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A universal exercise band retaining device in accordance with the various embodiments disclosed herein is referred to by numeral 10, as shown in FIGS. 1-4. The retaining device 10 is configured to allow an exercise band 20 to be conveniently and safely attached to an exercise bar 30.

It should be appreciated that the retaining device 10 may be used with any suitable exercise band 20. The exercise band 20 may comprise any suitable elastic band formed as a closed or continuous loop (i.e., having no ends), which is resilient and capable of imparting a resistive force to the user when the exercise band is stretched. In some cases, the exercise band 20 may be configured to have a flat profile, or flat opposed surfaces, however the exercise band 20 may take on any suitable cross-sectional shape, including a curvilinear shape, a rectilinear shape and combinations thereof.

The exercise bar 30 includes an elongated body 32 terminated by ends 34A and 34B. The exercise bar 30 may comprise any suitable bar for use in carrying out exercise movements, including bicep curls and tricep extensions for example. It should be appreciated that the exercise bar 30 may comprise any desired cross-sectional shape, such as a curvilinear shape, a rectilinear shape or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the exercise bar 30 may be straight, bent or be formed from a combination thereof. In some embodiments the exercise bar may be solid or hollow. In some embodiments, the exercise bar may be a purpose-built exercise bar, such as a straight bar or Olympic-style bar, for example. However, the exercise bar 30 may comprise any suitable section of pipe, angle iron, rods, dowels or poles for example. In addition, the exercise bar 30 may be formed of any suitable material, such as steel, aluminum, wood, composite, as well as combinations thereof.

The universal exercise band retaining device 10 includes a body 100 having an attachment section 110, a capture section 120, and a stop section 130. The body 100 may be formed from metal, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the body 100 may be formed of stainless steel. In addition, the body 100 may be formed as a continuous section of material or may alternatively be formed from multiple sections of material, which are joined together, such as through welding, adhesive, as well as fasteners, such as screws or rivets, and the like. It should also be appreciated that the body 100 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as rectilinear, curvilinear or a combination thereof. For example in some embodiments, the body 100, as shown in the Figs., utilizes a cylindrical or curvilinear cross-sectional shape that reduces any chaffing or abrasion imparted to the exercise band 20. It should also be appreciated that when the device 10 is formed from a continuous body 100, it decreases manufacturing costs, as the device 10 can be manufactured using standard metal bending machines, which is highly desirable.

Specifically, the attachment section 110 of the retaining device 10 comprises an aperture or eyelet 200 that is partially open by a gap 210. In other words, the aperture 200 is not completely closed. However, in some embodiments, the aperture 200 may be completely closed, so as not to include the gap 210. The aperture 200 is configured to receive the diameter of the exercise bar 30 therethrough, and as such, the exercise bar 30 is free to rotate within the aperture 200. It should also be appreciated that in some embodiments, the aperture 200 may include a release mechanism (not shown) that enables the retaining device 10 to be selectively attached to and released from the exercise bar 30. For example, the release mechanism may utilize friction to ensure the attachment of the device 10 to the bar 30. As such, in the case of the use of a release mechanism that affixes the aperture 200 to the exercise bar 30, the exercise bar 30 is not permitted to rotate within the aperture 200.

Connected to the attachment section 110 is the capture section 120. In some embodiments, the capture section 120 is connected to the attachment section 110 by an elongated arm segment 240. However, it should be appreciated that the attachment section 110 may be attached to the capture section 120 using any suitable means. It should also be appreciated that the arm segment 240 may be of any suitable length that extends at any angle relative to the attachment section 110 and the retention segment 310. The capture section 120 includes a curved stop segment 300A and a curved stop segment 300B that are joined together by an elongated retention segment 310. In addition, the curved profile of the stop segment 300A serves to space the elongated arm segment 240 from the capture section 120, and in particular the elongated retention segment 310. Furthermore, the elongated retention segment 310 is configured to be substantially parallel to the floor or ground when the exercise band retaining device 10 is attached to the exercise bar 30. However, it should be appreciated that the retention segment 310 may be positioned at any orientation relative to the floor or ground when the exercise band retaining device 10 is attached to the exercise bar 30. It should also be appreciated that the elongated segment 310 of the capture section 120 is configured to retain the width of the exercise band 20, as shown in FIG. 4. It should also be appreciated that the capture segment 310 and the arm segment 240 may or may not be parallel to each other.

As previously discussed, the curved stop segment 300A that is attached at one end to the elongated arm segment 240 is also attached at its other end to the retention segment 310, while the other end of the retention segment 310 is attached to the curved stop segment 300B. The curved stop segments 300A and 300B are configured in some embodiments to have concave surfaces that face each other, such as in an opposed manner or orientation.

Furthermore, by providing the stop segments 300A/300B and the retention segment 310 with curved or radiused surfaces 330A-B respectively, chaffing or abrasion of the exercise band 20 during its use is prevented or substantially reduced. This is because any forces generated by the movement of the exercise band 20 against the smooth transitions/surfaces 330A-B are gradually dispersed by the curved surfaces 330A-B. Furthermore, the spaced curved stop segments 300A and 300B serve to trap and retain the exercise band 20 therein, as shown in FIG. 4, and thereby prevent the exercise band 20 from inadvertently slipping around, as well as slipping off during use.

Continuing to FIG. 4, a user 500 of the exercise band 20 and the exercise bar 30 to which the retaining device 10 is attached proximate to each end 34A and 34B is shown. In addition, a platform 510, which may be optionally provided, is shown upon which the user 500 stands, such that the exercise band 20 is positioned underneath the platform 510, with each end of the exercise band 20 being attached to a retaining device 10. While the platform 510 may be used, it is not required to anchor the exercise band 20, as any suitable fixed structure may be used to anchor the exercise band 20 to allow a resistive force to be imparted to the exercise bar 30 during its use.

An alternative embodiment of the retaining device, referred to by reference numeral 10′ is shown in FIG. 5. In this embodiment, the stop segment 300B is configured to extend from the retention segment 310 at a substantially right angle to the retention segment 310, such that it is not concave. This is in contrast to the concave profile of the stop segment 300B shown in the embodiments discussed in FIGS. 1-4. That is, the stop segment 300B extends linearly from the retention segment 310 at a substantially right angle, such as that shown in FIG. 5. It should also be appreciated that the stop segment 300B extends from the retention section 310 through a curved radius 330B to prevent chaffing of the exercise band 20 during its use. Such a configuration of the stop segment 300B also increases the ease in which the exercise band 20 can be removed and attached to the retaining device 10.

A further embodiment of the retaining device is referred to by reference numeral 10″, as shown in FIG. 6. In this embodiment, an alternative attachment section 110′ is configured as a threaded end 600. In some embodiments, the threaded end 600 is configured to extend at an angle that is substantially perpendicular to the elongated retention segment 310 of the capture section 120. The threaded end 600 is configured to be threadably fastened within a threaded bore 610 that is disposed in the exercise bar 30. Thus, the retaining device 10 is capable of being threadably attached and unattached to the exercise bar 30 as desired.

In addition, the retaining device 10″ shown in FIG. 6 may also be utilized with a set collar 700 as shown in FIG. 7. The set collar 700 includes a receiving aperture 710 that is configured to receive the exercise bar 30 therethrough. The set collar 700 also includes a threaded attachment bore 720 that is configured to threadably receive the threaded end 600 of the retaining device 10″. Accordingly, the retaining device 10″ may be selectively attached to the set collar 700. Finally, a set bore 750 is also disposed in the set collar 700 that is configured to threadably receive a set screw 760 to secure or attach the set collar 700 to the exercise bar 30. Accordingly, when the set collar 700 is secured to the exercise bar 30 by tightening the set screw 760, the retaining device 10″ is prevented from moving relative to the exercise bar 30. However, it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the set collar 700 may be configured with rotating means using known techniques to allow the retaining device 10″ to rotate relative to the exercise bar 30.

An additional embodiment of the retaining device is referred to by reference numeral 10″' as shown in FIG. 8. The retaining device 10″′ is configured, such that an alternate attachment section 110″ is provided at an end 800 of the elongated arm segment 240. Disposed through the retaining device 10″' proximate to the end 800 is a retention bore 810. The retention bore 810 is configured to receive any suitable retaining device 830, such as retention pin for example. Thus, to place the retaining device 10″′ into use, the end 800 of the elongated arm section 240 is received through a bore 900 in the exercise bar 30, whereupon the retaining device 830 is placed in the retention bore 810, thus securing the retaining device 10″′ to the exercise bar 30.

It should be appreciated that a bearing 950 may be utilized with the retaining device 10 and the various other embodiments thereof discussed herein. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9-11, the bearing 950 may be inserted within the aperture 200 of the attachment section 110 of the retaining device 10. The bearing 950 may include an inner race 960 configured to engage the exercise bar 30 therethrough, such as through friction fit, and may include an outer race 970 configured to engage the aperture 200, such as through fiction fit. However, it should be appreciated that the inner and outer races may be attached to the exercise bar 30 and the aperture 20 using any suitable means, such as adhesive, welding, and the like. In some embodiments, the outer race 970 may have a concave surface, although it may have any other suitable shape. While the bearing 950 is shown as utilizing needle bearings 980, it should be appreciated that any other suitable bearing type may be used, such as ball bearings. In addition, the bearing 950 may also be retained to the exercise bar 30 by use of set collars 982 and 984 having an aperture 987 therethrough to receive the exercise bar 30. As such, the set collars 982 and 984 are secured on either side of the bearing 950 by threaded set screws (not shown) that engage the exercise bar 30. The set collars 982 and 984 are infinitely adjustable relative to the exercise bar 30. In other words, the set collars 982 and 984 are used to secure the device 10 in any position along the bar 30. As such, the set collars 982 and 984 offer infinite adjustability of the device 10 on the exercise bar 30 and offer security by preventing the bearing 985 and device 10 from coming off the exercise bar 30, as well. Accordingly, the bearing 950 facilitates the rotation of the retaining device 10 relative to the exercise bar 30 when in use.

Alternatively, the bearing 950 may comprise a bushing formed of any suitable material, such as brass, plastic, and the like.

Therefore, it can be seen that the objects of the various embodiments disclosed herein have been satisfied by the structure and its method for use presented above.

While in accordance with the Patent Statutes, only the best mode and preferred embodiments have been presented and described in detail, with it being understood that the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited thereto or thereby. Accordingly, for an appreciation of the true scope and breadth of the embodiments, reference should be made to the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A device for retaining an exercise band to an exercise bar comprising: an attachment section adapted to be attached to the exercise bar; a capture section attached extending from said attachment section by a first curved stop section; and a second curved stop section attached to an end of said capture section, whereby the exercise band is retained between said first and second curved stop sections.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein said attachment section is adapted to pivotably receive the exercise bar.
 3. The device of claim 2, wherein said attachment section includes an eyelet.
 4. The device of claim 3, wherein said eyelet includes a gap.
 5. The device of claim 3, wherein said eyelet is entirely closed.
 6. The device of claim 1, wherein said device is formed of one continuous section of material.
 7. The device of claim 6, where said device is formed of material having a curvilinear cross-section.
 8. The device of claim 1, wherein said attachment section comprises a release mechanism to selectively attach the device to the exercise bar.
 9. The device of claim 1, wherein said attachment section is attached to said capture section by an elongated section.
 10. The device of claim 8, wherein said attachment section is not parallel to said capture section.
 11. The device of claim 1, wherein said first and second stop sections include concave surfaces that oppose each other.
 12. The device of claim 1, wherein the radius of curvature for said concave surfaces are the same.
 13. The device of claim 1, wherein the attachment section comprises a threaded end.
 14. The device of claim 1, wherein the attachment section is terminated at an end, such that a retention bore is proximate to said end.
 15. The device of claim 1, wherein said attachment section includes a bearing.
 16. A kit comprising: an exercise bar having a bore disposed therethrough; and a retention device comprising: an attachment section adapted to be received in said bore; a capture section attached extending from said attachment section by a first curved stop section; and a second curved stop section attached to an end of said capture section, whereby the exercise band is retained between said first and second curved stop sections.
 17. The kit of claim 16, wherein said attachment section comprises a threaded end.
 18. The kit of claim 16, further comprising a fastener, wherein said attachment section comprises an end having a bore disposed proximate to said end configured to receive said fastener therein.
 19. The kit of claim 16, wherein said attachment section includes a bearing. 